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Topic: Please explain fasting to me. (Read 1095 times)

I am new to Orthodoxy and quite confused about the fasting rules in the lectionary I've been given. Next to some days it says 'Fast Day.' What are the fasting rules for these ordinary fast days? Am I supposed to eat less overall, or just abstain from certain foods, or both?

Also, if it says 'Fast Day, fish, wine, oil' does that mean that I'm allowed fish, wine and oil, or not allowed them? And what is 'Strict Fast' and a 'Meat Fast', and how do they differ from ordinary Fast Days?

Yes, as a catechumen you should be careful fasting. Fasting opens you up to all kinds of spiritual assaults, but it also opens you up so much more for God to work in you. Whenever an Orthodox Christian fasts for an extended period (such as Advent or Great Lent), they usually receive the Eucharist more frequently to give them strength. Since you do not yet have access to the Chalice, I would be cautious and seek your priest's advice on starting a fasting rule.